basis for prosecution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "basis for prosecution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in legal contexts to refer to the underlying reasons or evidence that justify bringing charges against someone. Example: "The evidence collected during the investigation provided a solid basis for prosecution in the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The most relevant law, the Espionage Act, is famously overbroad and thus an uncertain basis for prosecution.

The Washington Post

Since only five of the titles were used as a basis for prosecution, it may be presumed that the other films were not obscene.

Cornell University

A county district attorney later announced that there was no basis for prosecution, citing contradictory evidence, lack of forensic evidence, conflicting witness statements and credibility issues).

The New York Times

Soliciting such statements is complex, because they could be used as the basis for prosecution or — in the United States — deportation.

The New York Times

The Uranium One allegations have been repeatedly debunked; Barr should be walked through those facts and asked if he still insists there is a basis for prosecution.

The Washington Post

The testimony of petitioner in the present case admittedly did not amount to 'an admission of guilt or furnish clear proof of crime,' but was, on the contrary, a denial of any activities that might provide a basis for prosecution.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

But when the government gets into the business of warehousing millions of DNA profiles to seek "cold hits" as the primary basis for prosecutions, much more oversight by and accountability to the public is warranted.

The New York Times

But it has infuriated many victims' groups because it does not name any of the hundreds of individuals accused of abuse and thus cannot be used as a basis for prosecutions.

The New York Times

Material like this has been collated and cross-checked by organisations inside and outside Syria trying to compile a history of these violations, one that might at some future point provide the basis for prosecutions of those responsible on both sides, from the lowest to the highest.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Medical misinformation and false claims about the relative risks of harm from drug use during pregnancy are often the basis for prosecutions of pregnant women and laws targeting them for special penalties," Paltrow said.

Vice

A blanket ban Congress passed last fall bars anyone who has ever been detained at Guantánamo Bay Prison from entering the US on a blanket basis, except for prosecution.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In legal writing, always support the assertion of a "basis for prosecution" with factual details and references to relevant laws. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid prematurely declaring a "basis for prosecution" without sufficient investigation or evidence. Ensure that claims are thoroughly vetted and supported by credible sources before making such assertions, to avoid potential legal repercussions or reputational damage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "basis for prosecution" functions as a noun phrase, identifying the underlying reasons or justification for initiating legal proceedings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts. Examples show its use in discussing legal evidence and decisions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "basis for prosecution" accurately describes the grounds for initiating legal action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently encountered in legal and journalistic contexts. Its function is primarily to explain or justify legal proceedings, and it maintains a formal to neutral register. Common alternative phrases include "grounds for indictment", "justification for charges", and "cause for prosecution". When using the phrase, ensure clarity and provide sufficient evidence to support any claims made, avoiding overstatements that may undermine credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause for prosecution

A more direct synonym, indicating the reason why a prosecution is initiated.

rationale for prosecution

Emphasizes the logical reasoning or explanation behind the decision to prosecute.

justification for charges

Highlights the rationale behind the accusations made in a legal case.

predicate for prosecution

A more formal and legalistic term, referring to something that is required as a prior condition.

grounds for indictment

Focuses specifically on the justification for a formal accusation by a grand jury, narrowing the scope.

validity of prosecution

Addresses the legitimacy and legal soundness of the prosecution.

evidence supporting prosecution

Emphasizes the evidentiary aspect, focusing on the proof available to support the case.

reason for legal action

Broadens the concept to include any type of legal proceeding, not just criminal prosecution.

legal basis for suit

Specifically refers to the legal foundation for a lawsuit, implying a civil rather than criminal case.

foundation for litigation

Shifts the context to the broader field of litigation, which includes both criminal and civil cases.

FAQs

How can I use "basis for prosecution" in a sentence?

You can use "basis for prosecution" to indicate the justification or grounds for initiating legal proceedings against someone. For example, "The evidence collected provided a solid basis for prosecution."

What is an alternative to saying "basis for prosecution"?

Alternatives include "grounds for indictment", "justification for charges", or "cause for prosecution", depending on the specific context.

What constitutes a strong "basis for prosecution"?

A strong "basis for prosecution" typically involves compelling evidence, clear violation of relevant laws, and a reasonable likelihood of securing a conviction.

Is "basis for prosecution" the same as "grounds for appeal"?

No, "basis for prosecution" refers to the reasons for initiating a trial, while "grounds for appeal" refers to the reasons for challenging a verdict after a trial has concluded. They address different stages of the legal process.